COLLEGE PROFILE
How to Get Into UMD in 2026
DC-adjacent Big Ten school with strong CS, business, and public policy.
Quick Answer
University of Maryland, College Park has a 45% acceptance rate with a middle 50% SAT range of 1310-1480 and average GPA of 4.33. DC-adjacent Big Ten school with strong CS, business, and public policy. Founded 1856 in College Park, MD.
Admissions Snapshot
| Acceptance Rate | 45%Selective |
| SAT Range (25th-75th) | 1310 - 1480 |
| Average GPA (Unweighted) | 4.33 |
| Undergraduate Enrollment | 31,000 |
| School Type | Public |
| Location | College Park, MD |
| Founded | 1856 |
| Test Policy | Test-Optional |
| Need-Blind | No |
| Meets 100% Need | No |
Data source: IPEDS College Navigator and institutional Common Data Set (most recent available year). Data lags approximately one year.
What UMD Values Most (CDS Data)
Who Gets Into UMD: 4 Composite Profiles
These are composite profiles based on publicly available admissions patterns. They do not represent real individuals.
The Academic Powerhouse
Near-perfect GPA and test scores. Strong in STEM or humanities. Multiple AP/IB courses with 5s and 7s. Research experience or independent project.
The Community Builder
Founded or led a significant student organization. Demonstrated measurable community impact. Strong essays connecting service to personal growth.
The Specialized Expert
Deep expertise in one field — national competition winner, published research, or professional-level skill. Clear spike that makes the application memorable.
The Versatile Contributor
Strong across multiple areas without being the best at any single one. Excellent writer who connects diverse experiences into a coherent narrative.
UMD Essay Strategy
UMD's supplemental essays are your chance to demonstrate genuine fit. The "Why UMD?" essay must reference specific programs, professors, courses, or campus resources. Generic essays about prestige or location are immediately recognizable and ineffective.
Read the UMD Essay GuideApplication Strategy: ED vs EA vs RD
At 45% acceptance rate, strong applicants have solid chances in any round. Focus on essay quality over application timing.
Read our ED vs EA vs RD strategy guide →Use the UMD Fit Worksheet
Score your profile against UMD's admissions criteria. See where you stand across 7 dimensions calibrated to real CDS data. Free, no signup required.
Get Your Free UMD Fit ScoreFrequently Asked Questions
What is UMD's acceptance rate?
University of Maryland, College Park's acceptance rate is approximately 45% based on the most recent Common Data Set. This rate can vary by year and by application round (ED, EA, RD).
What SAT score do I need for UMD?
The middle 50% SAT range for UMD is 1310-1480. Scoring above 1480 does not guarantee admission, and scoring below 1310 does not mean rejection — holistic review considers the full application.
What GPA do I need to get into UMD?
The average unweighted GPA of admitted students at UMD is approximately 4.33. Course rigor (AP/IB/dual enrollment) matters as much as the GPA number itself.
Does UMD have Early Decision?
Check UMD's admissions website at umd.edu/admissions for the most current information on early application options. Policies can change year to year.
Is UMD test-optional?
Yes, UMD is currently test-optional. Test policies can change each admissions cycle.
How many students attend UMD?
University of Maryland, College Park has approximately 31,000 undergraduate students. As a public university, it offers a large campus community with diverse academic programs.
What is UMD known for?
DC-adjacent Big Ten school with strong CS, business, and public policy.
More UMD Resources
Written by AdmitPath team
Data sourced from IPEDS College Navigator and UMD's Common Data Set. CDS publication year noted — data may lag one year.
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